Putting consumers at the heart of taxi reform

Luxembourg's taxi system needs a major overhaul to go beyond just making it greener and more affordable, according to a national driving association.

14.03.2012

Luxembourg's taxi system needs a major overhaul to go beyond just making it greener and more affordable, according to a national driving association.

The Automobile Club of Luxembourg (ACL) sees the taxi as a flexible alternative to car ownership. In a statement released on Thursday it pledged support for Luxembourg City mayor Xavier Bettel's calls for cheaper and greener taxis.

But, it said that reforms must go further. ACL said: “We remind Mr Bettel that this sector requires a comprehensive reform, going beyond the competence of local authorities. Increasing the number of taxi licences granted alone will not solve the many problems that pollute the taxi industry.”

Last year, a survey of taxis in Luxembourg found that half of taxi drivers tested took their clients on lengthy detours meanwhile driving skills and high prices were heavily criticised.

In a bid to curb the use of exorbitant prices charged by some taxi firms ACL is calling for a nationwide reform of the system.

It recommends the end of territorial restrictions, which limit taxi drivers to collecting customers in specific areas. ACL wants taxi drivers to be allowed to advertise on their vehicles to compensate their income when charging lower fares.

Meanwhile, it wants tariffs to be clearly visible for users and rivals in a bid to increase competitiveness and to set a price ceiling on day and night journeys within Luxembourg.

“All such measures require a change in the regulations currently in force,” said ACL, adding: “For the ACL, it is essential that any reform takes into account the interests of consumers and does not come at their expense.”